Applying for a Belgium Schengen visa involves more than just submitting documents — there are various costs associated with the process. Understanding the visa fees, service charges, and other potential expenses will help applicants plan and budget accordingly.
Standard Visa Fees
The cost of a Belgium Schengen visa depends primarily on the applicant’s age. As of now:
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Adults (12 years and older): €90
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Children aged 6 to 12 years: €45
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Children under 6 years: Free of charge
Note: Visa fees are subject to change, so applicants should verify the latest fee information on the official Belgium visa website or through their local Belgian embassy or consulate before applying.
Additional Costs to Consider
In addition to the standard visa fee, applicants may incur several other costs during the visa application process:
1. Service Fees
When applying through a visa application center, such as VFS Global, an additional service fee may be charged. This fee varies by location and service provider.
2. Document Preparation
Other expenses may include:
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Travel insurance (mandatory for Schengen visas)
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Passport-sized photographs
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Photocopying, printing, and notarization of supporting documents
3. Premium Services
Optional services are available at some visa application centers, often for an extra fee. These include:
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Expedited or priority processing
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SMS/email notifications for status updates
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Courier delivery of your passport after a decision is made
Payment Information
Visa fees are usually paid at the time of application, either at the Belgian Embassy/Consulate or the designated visa application center. Accepted payment methods can include:
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Cash
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Credit or debit cards
If payment is made in a currency other than euros, the equivalent amount will be calculated based on the current exchange rate. Always check with the specific application center or embassy for accepted payment methods and currency options.
Important Considerations
Several factors can affect the total cost of your visa application:
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Visa Type: The fees may differ depending on whether you are applying for a short-stay Schengen visa or a long-stay national visa.
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Applicant Age: As outlined above, fees vary based on age groups.
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Visa Facilitation Agreements: Some countries have special agreements with the EU, which may reduce or waive visa fees for their citizens. It's advisable to check if your country qualifies for such arrangements.
Applying for a Belgium Schengen visa involves more than just the base application fee. From service charges to optional premium services, the total cost can vary depending on individual circumstances and preferences. To avoid surprises, applicants should review all applicable fees in advance and consult the official visa website or authorized visa centersfor the most accurate and up-to-date information.
